JP2012055637A - Game device, game processing method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a player to easily recognize a part to move soon in a game that the player plays by moving a body.SOLUTION: In a game device 500 for executing a game in a virtual space, a display part 501 displays, on a screen, a character to change a posture by prescribed choreography with the lapse of time, and instruction marks indicating which part of the player is to be moved at what timing in the choreography to the player to whom the subject to change the posture by the same choreography as the character is given. A selection part 502 selects the instruction mark indicating the part to be moved soon by the player among the instruction marks displayed on the screen. Further, the display part 501 emphatically displays the selected instruction mark and the part indicated by the selected instruction mark among the parts of the character.

Description

  The present invention relates to a game device, a game processing method, and a program suitable for making it easier for a player to grasp a part to be moved most recently in a game played by the player moving his body.

  There is a game where a player moves his / her body while looking at a mark or model displayed on the screen. For example, in order to give a lecture on how to dance, fitness, gymnastics, etc., a character whose posture changes is displayed, and the player moves his / her body with reference to the movement of the character. Patent Document 1 discloses a game in which an instruction mark is displayed on the screen, and when a user moves his / her foot according to the instruction mark, the user can feel the feeling of dancing.

Japanese Patent No. 3003851

  By the way, in a game such as a dance game that progresses as the player moves his body in real space, what kind of pose for the player can be obtained simply by showing a sample video or a model video to cause the player to perform a predetermined motion. It wasn't easy to figure out what to do, and it was sometimes difficult to let the player move smoothly. Also, it was sometimes difficult for the player to instantly know which part of the body should be moved and how.

  The present invention solves such a problem, and in a game that the player moves by playing the body, a game device, a game processing method, and a game device suitable for making it easier for the player to grasp the part that should be moved most recently, The purpose is to provide a program.

  In order to achieve the above object, the following invention is disclosed in accordance with the principle of the present invention.

A game device according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a display unit and a selection unit.
The display section
(A) a character that is arranged in a virtual space and changes its posture with a predetermined choreography over time;
(B) An instruction mark indicating which part of the player should be moved at which timing in the choreography for a player who is given the task of changing posture with the same choreography as the choreography of the character;
Is displayed.
A selection part selects the 1st instruction mark showing the part which a player should move most recently among the instruction marks displayed on a screen.
Further, the display unit highlights the first instruction mark and the first part represented by the first instruction mark among the character parts displayed on the screen in the first mode.

  The game executed by the game device of the present invention is a game in which the player moves his / her body with reference to the movement of characters and instruction marks displayed on the screen, such as a dance game. However, it is not limited to a dance game, and may be a software application that lectures fitness, gymnastics, yoga and other poses.

  An image of a character whose posture changes is displayed on the screen. For example, in a dance game, a character presents a player with examples of dance choreography. In addition, on the screen, a timing (instruction mark) that indicates when the player should move the body and where and how to move the body at that timing is displayed. For example, in a game of moving a foot, an instruction mark indicates to the player which timing and how to move which foot.

  Here, a game task is stored in advance in a game device or an information recording medium inserted into the game device. The game task is, for example, information in which a timing at which the player should move his feet, a position where his / her foot should be moved, and information indicating which foot should be moved are associated with each other. Typically, a plurality of game tasks are defined in advance for one dance task piece, and the game tasks are sequentially presented to the player as time passes. Players can feel like they are dancing by moving their bodies according to the game tasks presented.

  Of the instruction marks displayed on the screen, the instruction mark corresponding to the most recent game task is displayed with higher emphasis than other instruction marks. Similarly, in the character image displayed on the screen, the part corresponding to the most recent game task is displayed with higher emphasis than other parts. The latest means that the time defined in the game task (task time) is a time later than the current time and is closest to the current time. In other words, in order to clearly understand the content of the game task to be cleared by the player, information indicating when to move most recently, the position to move the foot most recently, and which foot to move most recently is an image. It is presented to the player by highlighting. According to the present invention, it becomes easy for the player to grasp the part to be moved most recently.

The selection unit may select a second instruction mark representing a part that the player should move next to the first part.
The display unit may also highlight the second instruction mark and the second part represented by the second instruction mark among the character parts displayed on the screen in the second mode. Good.

  That is, according to the present invention, not only the most recent game task to be cleared by the player but also the contents of the most recent second game task are presented so as to be clearly understood. It becomes easier for the player to grasp the part to be moved most recently. For example, in an actual dance, the left foot and the right foot are moved alternately to take steps. Thus, as in the present invention, the two most recent game tasks, that is, how to move the two most recent legs are presented in an easy-to-understand manner, so that the player can move the body more smoothly.

The display unit may display on the screen an image representing a state where the character is viewed from the position of the virtual viewpoint arranged in the virtual space in the direction of the virtual line of sight set in the virtual space.
The position of the virtual viewpoint and the direction of the virtual line of sight may both be variable.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to prompt a player to move his / her body smoothly using a more understandable and more realistic image. For example, in the case where the position of the virtual viewpoint (virtual camera) moves in the virtual space and the direction of the virtual line of sight moves, when displaying an image of the character while the virtual viewpoint circulates around the character, The part of the character can be seen on the right side or the left side when viewed from the player. In other words, depending on how you look, there is a risk that it will be difficult to instantly grasp the left-right or top-bottom relationship. However, according to the present invention, the portion of the character that the player should pay attention to is highlighted in an easy-to-understand manner, so that the player can move the body smoothly.

  The display unit is a first mode obtained by changing at least one of brightness, saturation, and hue of each image representing the first instruction mark and the first part. And the first part may be highlighted.

  According to the present invention, since the instruction mark indicated by the most recent game task and the color of the part indicated by the most recent game task change, the player can grasp the content of the most recent game task by observing the color change. It becomes easier and you can move your body smoothly.

  The display unit is an aspect obtained by changing at least one of brightness, saturation, and hue of each image representing the second instruction mark and the second part, and the first aspect is In a different second mode, the second instruction mark and the second part may be highlighted.

  According to the present invention, the indication mark indicated by the two most recent game tasks and the color of the part indicated by the two most recent game tasks change. It becomes easy to grasp the contents of the game tasks and can move the body smoothly. In addition, the player can easily grasp the continuous movement.

The game processing method which concerns on the other viewpoint of this invention is a game processing method performed with the game device which has a display part and a selection part, Comprising: A display step and a selection step are provided.
In the display step, the display unit
(A) a character that is arranged in a virtual space and changes its posture with a predetermined choreography over time;
(B) An instruction mark indicating which part of the player should be moved at which timing in the choreography for a player who is given the task of changing posture with the same choreography as the choreography of the character;
Is displayed.
In the selection step, the selection unit selects, from among the instruction marks displayed on the screen, a first instruction mark representing a part that the player should move most recently.
Further, in the display step, the display unit emphasizes the first instruction mark and the first part represented by the first instruction mark among the character parts displayed on the screen in the first mode. indicate.

  According to the present invention, it becomes easy for the player to grasp the part to be moved most recently.

A program according to another aspect of the present invention causes a computer to function as a display unit and a selection unit.
The display section
(A) a character that is arranged in a virtual space and changes its posture with a predetermined choreography over time;
(B) An instruction mark indicating which part of the player should be moved at which timing in the choreography for a player who is given the task of changing posture with the same choreography as the choreography of the character;
Is displayed.
A selection part selects the 1st instruction mark showing the part which a player should move most recently among the instruction marks displayed on a screen.
Further, the display unit highlights the first instruction mark and the first part represented by the first instruction mark among the character parts displayed on the screen in the first mode.

According to the present invention, it is possible to cause a computer to function as a game device that operates as described above.
The program of the present invention can be recorded on a computer-readable information storage medium such as a compact disk, flexible disk, hard disk, magneto-optical disk, digital video disk, magnetic tape, and semiconductor memory.
The above program can be distributed and sold via a computer communication network independently of the computer on which the program is executed. The information storage medium can be distributed and sold independently from the computer.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a game device, a game processing method, and a program suitable for making it easier for the player to grasp the part that should be moved most recently in a game in which the player moves his body.

It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the typical information processing apparatus with which the game device of this invention is implement | achieved. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of a 1st controller. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of a 2nd controller (mat). It is a figure which shows the structural example of a game screen. It is a figure for demonstrating the functional structure of a game device. It is a configuration example of a game screen in which a selected step position instruction mark and a character part corresponding to a game task indicated by the selected step position instruction mark are displayed in an emphasized manner. It is a flowchart for demonstrating a game process. In Embodiment 2, it is a figure which shows the structural example of a game screen. In Embodiment 3, it is a figure for demonstrating a character, a virtual viewpoint, and a virtual eyes | visual_axis. It is a figure which shows the other structural example of a game screen. It is a figure which shows the other structural example of a game screen.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. In the following, for ease of understanding, an embodiment in which the present invention is realized using a game information processing device will be described. However, the embodiment described below is for explanation, and the present invention is described. It does not limit the range. Therefore, those skilled in the art can employ embodiments in which each or all of these elements are replaced with equivalent ones, and these embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a typical information processing apparatus that performs functions of a game apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention by executing a program.

  The information processing apparatus 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, an interface 104, a first controller 105, an external memory 106, a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc ROM) drive 107, An image processing unit 108, an audio processing unit 109, a NIC (Network Interface Card) 110, and a second controller 111 are provided.

  When a DVD-ROM storing a game program and data is loaded into the DVD-ROM drive 107 and the information processing apparatus 100 is turned on, the program is executed and the game apparatus according to the present embodiment is realized. Is done.

  The CPU 101 controls the overall operation of the information processing apparatus 100, is connected to each component, and exchanges control signals and data. Further, the CPU 101 uses arithmetic operations such as addition / subtraction / multiplication / division, logical sum, logical product, etc. using an ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) (not shown) for a storage area called a register (not shown) that can be accessed at high speed. , Logic operations such as logical negation, bit operations such as bit sum, bit product, bit inversion, bit shift, and bit rotation can be performed. In addition, the CPU 101 itself is configured so that saturation operations such as addition / subtraction / multiplication / division for multimedia processing, vector operations such as trigonometric functions, etc. can be performed at a high speed, and those provided with a coprocessor. There is.

  The ROM 102 records an IPL (Initial Program Loader) that is executed immediately after the power is turned on, and when this is executed, the program recorded on the DVD-ROM is read out to the RAM 103 and execution by the CPU 101 is started. The The ROM 102 stores an operating system program and various data necessary for operation control of the entire information processing apparatus 100.

  The RAM 103 is for temporarily storing data and programs, and holds programs and data read from the DVD-ROM and other data necessary for game progress and chat communication. Further, the CPU 101 provides a variable area in the RAM 103 and performs an operation by directly operating the ALU on the value stored in the variable, or temporarily stores the value stored in the RAM 103 in the register. Perform operations such as performing operations on registers and writing back the operation results to memory.

  The first controller 105 and the second controller 111 connected via the interface 104 receive an operation input performed by the player when the game is executed. Details of the first controller 105 and the second controller 111 will be described later. In the following description, the first controller 105 may be simply referred to as “controller”, and the second controller 111 may be referred to as “mat”.

  The external memory 106 detachably connected via the interface 104 stores data indicating game play status (past results, etc.), data indicating the progress of the game, and log of chat communication in a network battle ( Data) is stored in a rewritable manner. The player can appropriately record these data in the external memory 106 by inputting an instruction via the first controller 105 and the second controller 111.

  A DVD-ROM mounted on the DVD-ROM drive 107 stores a program for playing a game and image data and audio data associated with the game. Under the control of the CPU 101, the DVD-ROM drive 107 performs a reading process on the DVD-ROM loaded therein, reads out necessary programs and data, and these are temporarily stored in the RAM 103 or the like.

  The image processing unit 108 processes the data read from the DVD-ROM by the CPU 101 or an image arithmetic processor (not shown) included in the image processing unit 108, and then processes the processed data on a frame memory ( (Not shown). The image information recorded in the frame memory is converted into a video signal at a predetermined synchronization timing and output to a monitor (not shown) connected to the image processing unit 108. Thereby, various image displays are possible.

  The image calculation processor can execute a two-dimensional image overlay calculation, a transmission calculation such as α blending, and various saturation calculations at high speed.

  In addition, when the virtual space is configured in three dimensions, polygon information that is arranged in the three-dimensional space and to which various texture information is added is rendered by the Z buffer method, and a predetermined viewpoint position is used. It is also possible to execute a calculation at high speed to obtain a rendering image in which a polygon arranged in the virtual space is viewed in the direction of a predetermined line of sight.

  Further, the CPU 101 and the image arithmetic processor operate in a coordinated manner, so that a character string can be drawn as a two-dimensional image in a frame memory or drawn on the surface of each polygon according to font information that defines the character shape. is there.

  The audio processing unit 109 converts audio data read from the DVD-ROM into an analog audio signal, and outputs it from a speaker connected thereto. Further, under the control of the CPU 101, sound effects and music data to be generated during the progress of the game are generated, and sound corresponding to this is output from the speaker.

  When the audio data recorded on the DVD-ROM is MIDI data, the audio processing unit 109 refers to the sound source data included in the audio data and converts the MIDI data into PCM data. If the compressed audio data is in ADPCM format or Ogg Vorbis format, it is expanded and converted to PCM data. The PCM data can be output by performing D / A (Digital / Analog) conversion at a timing corresponding to the sampling frequency and outputting it to a speaker.

  Furthermore, a microphone can be connected to the information processing apparatus 100 via the interface 104. In this case, the analog signal from the microphone is subjected to A / D conversion at an appropriate sampling frequency so that processing such as mixing in the audio processing unit 109 can be performed as a PCM format digital signal.

  The NIC 110 is used to connect the information processing apparatus 100 to a computer communication network (not shown) such as the Internet, and is based on the 10BASE-T / 100BASE-T standard used when configuring a LAN (Local Area Network). To connect to the Internet using an analog modem, ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) modem, ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) modem, cable television line A cable modem or the like, and an interface (not shown) that mediates between them and the CPU 101 are configured.

  In addition, the information processing apparatus 100 uses a large-capacity external storage device such as a hard disk so as to perform the same function as the ROM 102, the RAM 103, the external memory 106, the DVD-ROM attached to the DVD-ROM drive 107, and the like. You may comprise.

  The information processing apparatus 100 described above corresponds to a so-called “consumer video game apparatus”, but the present invention can be realized as long as it performs image processing to display a virtual space. Therefore, the present invention can be realized on various computers such as a mobile phone, a portable game device, a karaoke apparatus, and a general business computer.

  For example, a general computer includes an CPU, a RAM, a ROM, a DVD-ROM drive, and an NIC, as in the information processing apparatus 100, and an image processing unit having a simpler function than the information processing apparatus 100. In addition to having a hard disk as an external storage device, a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a magnetic tape, and the like can be used. Further, instead of the first controller 105 and the second controller 111, a keyboard or a mouse can be used as an input device.

  In the present embodiment, a controller that can measure various parameters such as the current position and posture of the first controller 105 in the real space is employed as the first controller 105.

  FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the external appearance of the information processing apparatus 100 and the first controller 105 that can measure various parameters such as position and posture in the actual space. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.

  The first controller 105 is a combination of the grip module 201 and the light emitting module 251. The grip module 201 is communicably connected to the information processing apparatus 100 by wireless communication. The light emitting module 251 is communicably connected to the information processing apparatus 100 by wire. The sound and image of the processing result of the information processing apparatus 100 are output and displayed by the television apparatus 291.

  The grip module 201 has an appearance similar to the remote controller of the television device 291, and a CCD camera 202 is disposed at the tip thereof.

  On the other hand, the light emitting module 251 is fixed to the upper part of the television device 291. Light emitting diodes 252 are disposed at both ends of the light emitting module 251, and emits light when power is supplied from the information processing apparatus 100.

  The CCD camera 202 of the grip module 201 takes a picture of the light emitting module 251.

  Information on the captured image is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 100, and the CPU 101 of the information processing apparatus 100 determines the grip module for the light emitting module 251 based on the position where the light emitting diode 252 is captured in the captured image. The position of 201 is acquired.

  In addition, an acceleration sensor, an angular acceleration sensor, an inclination sensor, and the like are built in the grip module 201, and the posture of the grip module 201 itself can be measured. This measurement result is also transmitted to the information processing apparatus 100.

  A cross-shaped key 203 is arranged on the upper surface of the grip module 201, and the player can input various direction instructions by pressing the cross-shaped key 203. In addition to the A button 204, various buttons 206 are also arranged on the upper surface, and an instruction input associated with the button can be performed.

  On the other hand, the B button 205 is disposed on the lower surface of the grip module 201 and, in combination with the depression formed on the lower surface of the grip module 201, simulates a trigger in a handgun or a magic hand. Typically, the B button 205 is used to input an instruction for firing with a handgun or holding with a magic hand in a virtual space.

  Further, the indicator 207 on the upper surface of the grip module 201 presents to the player the operating status of the grip module 201 and the status of wireless communication with the information processing apparatus 100.

  A power button 208 prepared on the upper surface of the grip module 201 turns on / off the grip module 201 itself, and the grip module 201 is operated by a built-in battery (not shown).

  In addition, a speaker 209 is disposed on the upper surface of the grip module 201 and outputs a sound based on a sound signal input from the sound processing unit 109. A vibrator (not shown) is prepared inside the grip module 201 so that the presence / absence and strength of vibration can be controlled based on an instruction from the information processing apparatus 100.

  The following description is based on the assumption that the position and orientation of the grip module 201 in the real world are measured using the first controller 105 that is a combination of the grip module 201 and the light emitting module 251. However, regardless of the above-described form, even when the position and orientation of the first controller 105 in the real world are measured using, for example, ultrasonic waves, infrared communication, GPS (Global Positioning System), or the like. And within the scope of the present invention.

  The second controller (mat) 111 is placed on a floor or the like, and has a mat shape that allows the player to press a predetermined area on the surface with a foot or a hand. In a predetermined area on the surface of the second controller 111, a button for receiving an instruction input by pressing from the player or a sensor for detecting pressure applied by the player is arranged.

  FIG. 3 is a view of the second controller 111 installed on the floor as viewed from directly above. In a predetermined area of the second controller 111, a button 301 for accepting an input indicating “left” from the player, a button 302 for accepting an input indicating “down” from the player, and an input indicating “up” from the player are received. A button 303 and a button 304 for receiving an input for instructing “right” from the player are arranged. The player can press the buttons 301 to 304 at an arbitrary timing.

  A state where the buttons 301 to 304 are pressed by the player is referred to as a “pressed state”, and a state where the buttons 301 to 304 are not pressed is referred to as a “non-pressed state”. The CPU 101 determines whether each of the buttons 301 to 304 is in a pressed state or a non-pressed state.

  The second controller 111 of this embodiment includes four buttons 301 to 304, but the number of buttons is not limited to four, and may be three or less or five or more.

  Next, an outline of a game executed by the information processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 4 shows a configuration example of the game screen displayed on the monitor. On the game screen, stationary marks 401 to 404 that are fixedly drawn at a predetermined position, and stepping position instruction marks 410 that the drawing position moves over time (in this figure, 410A, 410B, 410C, 410D) A gauge 430 representing the player's performance, a character 450 as a sample of choreography for dance, and other background images are displayed.

  The step position indication mark 410 is scroll-displayed in accordance with the music to be played. The step position indication mark 410 has one of the up, down, left and right arrows.

  The stationary marks 401 to 404 are fixed at predetermined positions in the game screen. On the stationary marks 401 to 404, an image of one of the up, down, left and right arrows is drawn.

  The step position indication mark 410 moves in accordance with the music playback speed toward the position where the stationary marks 401 to 404 are drawn. When the stepping position instruction mark 410 moves to the same position as the stationary marks 401 to 404, when the player presses one of the buttons 301 to 304 corresponding to the direction of the arrow drawn on the stationary marks 401 to 404, the player's The score is added or the value (dance meter) indicated by the gauge 430 is increased.

  When the stepping position instruction mark 410 has moved to a position that overlaps one of the stationary marks 401 to 404, the player selects a button (any one of the buttons 301 to 304) corresponding to the arrow indicated by the moved stepping position instruction mark 410. When you press with your foot, you will be able to take exemplary dance steps that match the music being played.

  A combination of a task time, information specifying a button to be pressed at the task time, and information specifying a player's part to be used for pressing the button is referred to as a “game task”. Game tasks are stored in advance in a DVD-ROM. One problem is expressed as [Equation 1].

  P (i) = (T (i), B (x), R (y)) [Equation 1]

  However, the game of the present embodiment has N (N is an integer of 1 or more) game tasks, and P (i) is the i-th game task (i is an integer of 1 to N) from the top. T (i) represents the task time corresponding to the task P (i), B (x) represents the task content, and R (y) represents the player's part.

  The task time T (i) may be a time in the game or a time in the real world that is timed with a real-time clock. For example, the task time T (i) may be defined in association with the music to be played back, such as “how many beats in what measures from the beginning of the music”.

  The task content B (x) includes a value B (L) indicating the button 301, a value B (D) indicating the button 302, a value B (U) indicating the button 303, and a value B (R) indicating the button 304. Is specified. However, as will be described later, the task content may further include other information such as the body part of the player in addition to the information indicating the button.

  The part R (y) includes one of a value R (L) indicating the player's left foot, a value R (R) indicating the player's right foot, and a value R (N) indicating that either is acceptable. Is specified.

  The character 450 presents in an easy-to-understand manner what the player should do to achieve the game task. The CPU 101 sequentially changes the position and posture of the character 450 as indicated by the game task. The player can intuitively grasp the content of the game task by looking at the movement of the character 450. In proceeding with the game, the character 450 serves as a model for the player.

For example, it is assumed that a certain game task is expressed as [Equation 2].
P (i) = (T (i), B (L), R (L)) [Equation 2]
At this time, the i-th game task is “to press the left button 301 of the second controller 111 with the left foot at time T (i)”. The player may step on the left button 301 with the left foot when the time in the game reaches T (i).

  A plurality of task contents can be associated with one task time. However, it is desirable to associate at most two task contents with one task time. For example, when two task contents B (x1) and B (x2) are associated with time T (i), the game task is expressed as [Equation 3] and [Equation 4].

P (i) = (T (i), B (x1), R (L)) [Equation 3]
P (i + 1) = (T (i), B (x2), R (R)) [Equation 4]

  At this time, the i-th game task is “at time T (i), the left button 301 of the second controller 111 is pressed with the left foot”, and the i + 1-th game task is “same as the i-th game task”. “At time T (i), the right button 304 of the second controller 111 is pressed with the right foot”. When the time in the game reaches T (i), the player may step on the left button 301 with the left foot and step on the right button 304 with the right foot so as to spread both feet.

  For each game task, the CPU 101 determines the player's score based on how close the button indicated by the task content among the buttons 301 to 304 is pressed to the task time. For example, when the button indicated by the task content is pressed at the same timing as the task time, “GREAT”, when the button indicated by the task content is pressed at a timing within a predetermined time width before and after the task time, “GOOD”, When it is pressed at other timing or not pressed, it is determined as “BAD” or the like.

  Alternatively, the CPU 101 may determine the player's score for each game task based on whether a button indicated by the task content among the buttons 301 to 304 is pressed at the task time.

  In the game played on the game device 500 of this embodiment, when the stepping position instruction marks 410A to 410D have moved to the positions of the stationary marks 401 to 404, the buttons 301 to 304 corresponding to the stepping position instruction marks 410A to 410D are displayed. It is a dance game in which the player can experience a sense of dancing by guiding the player to step on the left or right foot. Here, when determining the player's performance, the CPU 101 does not consider whether the player steps on the buttons 301 to 304 with the left or right foot. In other words, the player does not make a difference in the results regardless of whether the player steps on the buttons 301 to 304 with the left or right foot. However, in general, dance has a time when the left foot should be moved and a time when the right foot should be moved. Therefore, for each game task, the game apparatus 500 presents to the player which foot the buttons 301 to 304 should be stepped on with the display of the character 450 so that a more exemplary dance can be performed.

  Next, a functional configuration of the game apparatus 500 according to the present embodiment that is realized by the information processing apparatus 100 having the above-described configurations will be described. As shown in FIG. 5, the game apparatus 500 includes a display unit 501 and a selection unit 502.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the display unit 501 displays a character 450 and stepping position instruction marks 410 </ b> A to 410 </ b> D on the screen. The character 450 is arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space, and changes its posture with a predetermined choreography as time passes. The step position indication marks 410A to 410D indicate which part of the player should be moved at which timing in the choreography for a player who is given a game task indicating that the posture should be changed by the same choreography as that of the character 450. Represents.

  In addition, the display unit 501 may display the step position instruction marks 410A to 410D and a part of the character 450 with emphasis relative to other parts as described later. The CPU 101 and the image processing unit 108 cooperate to function as the display unit 501.

  The selection unit 502 selects a step position indication mark representing a part that the player should move most recently among the step position indication marks 410A to 410D displayed on the screen. The CPU 101 functions as the selection unit 502.

  The latest mentioned here is a time that is later than the current time and closest to the current time. The most recent game task is a game task that the player should achieve next.

  For example, in the case of FIG. 6, the step position instruction mark 410 </ b> A representing the position that the player should move most recently is the step position instruction mark 410 </ b> A. CPU 101 selects stepping position instruction mark 410A from all stepping position instruction marks 410A to 410D in the screen.

  Further, the CPU 101 acquires a part R (y) indicated by the game task corresponding to the selected step position instruction mark 410A. As described above, since one game task is represented by a combination of task time T (i), task content B (x), and part R (y), task time (i) or game task serial number i. From this, the corresponding region R (y) is obtained.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 6, the CPU 101 highlights and displays the selected step position instruction mark 410A, and among the characters 450, a part corresponding to the game task represented by the step position instruction mark 410A (in FIG. 6). Display the left foot) with emphasis.

  For example, if the part corresponding to the game task represented by the selected step position instruction mark 410A is “left foot”, the CPU 101 highlights and displays the selected step position instruction mark 410A. The part corresponding to the left foot is displayed with emphasis over other parts.

There are various variations in how to emphasize parts.
For example, the CPU 101 may set the selected step position instruction mark and the part corresponding to the game task represented by the selected step position instruction mark to be relatively bright (increase brightness). The player can not only recognize at a glance that the step position indication mark that is relatively bright and shining represents the next game task to be challenged, but in order to clear the game task, You can get a hint of the game that the player should move the brightly shining part.

  It is desirable that the CPU 101 sets the lightness change amount of the selected step position instruction mark to be approximately the same as the lightness change amount of the part corresponding to the game task represented by the selected step position instruction mark. This is because it is easier to intuitively grasp the correspondence relationship between the step position indication mark and the character movement when the color change method is the same (or similar).

  The CPU 101 may display the character 450 by changing the saturation and / or the hue instead of or in addition to the brightness. Also in this case, it is desirable that the amount of change in saturation and the amount of change in hue be approximately the same.

  The CPU 101 enlarges / reduces and blinks the selected step position instruction mark and displays the color of the part corresponding to the game task represented by the selected step position instruction mark (at least one of brightness, saturation, and hue). The above may be changed.

  The CPU 101 displays the selected step position instruction mark and the part corresponding to the game task represented by the selected step position instruction mark in a predetermined color (emphasized color), and emphasizes the step position instruction mark that has not been selected. Display in a default color different from the color. For example, the CPU 101 sets the default color to “white” and the highlight color to “red”. Then, the CPU 101 changes the color of the selected step position instruction mark to red, and changes the color of the part corresponding to the selected step position instruction mark to red. The player can immediately determine when, which part and how he / she should move by looking at the step position indication mark and the part displayed in highlighted color.

  Next, the flow of the game process executed by the game device 200 of this embodiment will be described using the flowchart of FIG.

  The game executed on the game device 200 is a dance game as described above. When receiving an instruction to start the game from the player, the CPU 101 reads the music data of the dance task music from the DVD-ROM. Then, the CPU 101 starts the game and reproduces the read music data. The assignment song is output from the speaker.

  First, upon receiving an instruction to start a game, the CPU 101 receives data (character data) that defines the movement of the character 450 and data that defines all game tasks associated with the music to be played. The data is read from the DVD-ROM (step S701). Character data, data defining a game task, and music data are all stored in advance in a DVD-ROM.

  The CPU 101 displays a character 450 on the screen based on the read character data, and also displays a step position indication mark 410 corresponding to a game task within a predetermined time from the current game task among all the read game tasks (step). S702). The character 450 is displayed as a moving image, and the step position indication mark 410 is scrolled toward the stationary marks 401 to 404.

  CPU 101 selects one of the latest step position indication marks 410 from the step position indication marks 410 displayed on the screen (step S703). That is, the step position indication mark corresponding to the game task whose task time is later than the current time and closest to the current time is selected.

  The CPU 101 acquires a part indicated by the game task corresponding to the step position indication mark 410 selected in step S703 (step S704). For example, the game task is represented by a combination of the task time T (i), the task content B (x), and the part R (y) as in [Equation 1], and the CPU 101 determines the task time (i). Alternatively, the part R (y) corresponding to the selected step position indication mark 410 is acquired from the serial number i of the game task.

  The CPU 101 highlights the step position indication mark 410 selected in step S703 and the part acquired in step S704 (step S705). The method of emphasis is arbitrary, and the selected step position indication mark may be displayed so as to be emphasized relatively and more prominently than the step position indication mark not selected.

  The CPU 101 determines the player's score for the selected step position indication mark 410 (step S706).

  Then, the CPU 101 determines whether or not to end the game (step S707). For example, the CPU 101 determines that the game is to be ended when the pointer indicating the position in the music data to be played reaches the end of the music (when the music has been played). Alternatively, it is determined that the game is to be ended when the value of the gauge 430 indicating the player's game performance is equal to or lower than a predetermined value (typically zero).

  If it is determined that the game is not to be ended (step S707; NO), the CPU 101 repeats the processes of steps S702 to S706. That is, for the step position instruction mark 410 selected in step S703, when the grade determination in step S706 ends, the step position instruction mark 410 corresponding to the game task to be cleared next by the player is highlighted and displayed as a character. Of the image representing 450, the part defined by the game task to be cleared next by the player is highlighted and displayed. These processes are repeated until the game ends. On the other hand, when it is determined that the game is to be ended (step S707; YES), the CPU 101 stops the reproduction of the music and ends the game.

  According to the present embodiment, the game task to be dealt with most recently is presented to the player in an easy-to-understand manner by highlighting the step position indication mark 410 and highlighting the part corresponding to the game task. It is possible to intuitively grasp the part to be moved most recently. In addition, the game apparatus 200 can guide the player so that an exemplary dance can be performed by presenting to the player which foot to move to the left or right in the dance game.

  In the present embodiment, even if the buttons 301 to 304 corresponding to the step position indication marks 410A to 410D are stepped on with either the left or right foot, the player's results are not affected. That is, the player may step on the buttons 301 to 304 with either left or right foot. However, the left foot portion or the right foot portion of the character 450 is displayed in an emphasized manner, so that the player is presented with which foot is appropriate for a more exemplary and more beautiful choreography. The player can grasp more exemplary and more beautiful choreography by looking at the highlighted part of the character.

(Embodiment 2)
Next, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. In the above embodiment, the step position instruction mark and the part corresponding to the most recent game task are highlighted and displayed, but in this embodiment, the step position instruction mark and the part corresponding to the two most recent game tasks are displayed. Is highlighted.

  That is, in step S703, the CPU 101 refers to a step position instruction mark (hereinafter referred to as a “first instruction mark”) representing a part that the player should move most recently among the step position instruction marks displayed on the screen. And a step position indication mark (hereinafter referred to as a “second indication mark”) representing a part to be moved next is selected.

  For example, in FIG. 8, the first instruction mark is a step position instruction mark 810, and the second instruction mark is a step position instruction mark 820.

  Furthermore, in step S704, the CPU 101 determines a part indicated by the game task corresponding to the first instruction mark (hereinafter referred to as “first part”) and a part indicated by the game task corresponding to the second instruction mark ( (Hereinafter referred to as “second part”).

  For example, in FIG. 8, the game task corresponding to the first instruction mark (stepping position instruction mark 810) is expressed as [Equation 5], and the game task corresponding to the second instruction mark (stepping position instruction mark 820). Is expressed as [Equation 6].

P (i) = (T (i), B (L), R (L)) [Equation 5]
P (i + 1) = (T (i + 1), B (D), R (R)) [Equation 6]

  In this case, the first part is the “left foot” and the second part is the “right foot”. The specific contents of these game tasks are “the player steps on the left button 301 with the left foot at time T (i) and then steps on the lower button 302 with the right foot at time T (i + 1)”.

In step S705, the CPU 101
(1) The first instruction mark and the portion corresponding to the first part of the image representing the character 450 in the first aspect,
(2) A second instruction mark and a portion corresponding to the second part of the image representing the character 450 in the second mode,
Highlight each one.

  For example, in FIG. 8, the first position 815 (left foot) of the character 450 corresponds to the step position instruction mark 810 (first instruction mark), and the character 450 corresponds to the step position instruction mark 820 (second instruction mark). Corresponds to the second region 825 (right foot). The CPU 101 highlights the step position indication mark 810 in the first mode and highlights the first part 815 in the first mode. Further, the CPU 101 highlights the step position instruction mark 820 in the second mode and also highlights the second part 825 in the second mode.

  The first aspect and the second aspect are different from each other. For example, the CPU 101 may have different colors such as “display in red” for the first aspect and “display in blue” for the second aspect. Alternatively, the CPU 101 is different in that the first mode is “X times larger than the normal size” and the second mode is “Y times larger (X> Y) than the normal size”. You may make it a size. In addition, the CPU 101 changes the brightness, pattern, frequency of blinking, and the like between the first mode and the second mode in place of or in addition to the color and size. May be.

  Note that the degree of emphasis by the first aspect is greater than the degree of emphasis by the second aspect. That is, the first instruction mark is displayed more conspicuously than the second instruction mark, and the second instruction mark is displayed more conspicuously than other normal step position instruction marks.

  According to the present embodiment, not only the most recent one game task but also the two most recent game tasks are presented as to which part the player should move. The effect of being able to grasp it automatically increases. For example, in dance, it is common to move the left and right feet alternately, and moving the left and right feet alternately produces a more beautiful foot stroke. Therefore, by presenting the parts to be moved in the two most recent game tasks as in the present embodiment, it is shown how to move both feet in an easy-to-understand manner, making it easier for the player to move weight and move smoothly. It becomes like this.

(Embodiment 3)
Next, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. In the present embodiment, a character 450 is arranged in a three-dimensional virtual space, and a movable virtual viewpoint (virtual camera) is arranged in the virtual space. A state in which the character 450 is viewed from the position of the virtual viewpoint in the direction of the virtual line of sight is displayed on the screen. This embodiment is different from the above embodiments in that both the position of the virtual viewpoint and the direction of the virtual line of sight are movable. This will be described in detail below.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the character 450, the positions of the virtual viewpoints 910 and 950, and the directions of the virtual lines of sight 920 and 960. The virtual viewpoint 910 is a virtual viewpoint at a certain time T1. The virtual viewpoint 950 is a virtual viewpoint at time T2 (T1 ≠ T2) after time T1. Similarly, the virtual visual line 920 is a virtual visual line at time T1, and the virtual visual line 960 is a virtual visual line at time T2. The CPU 101 can change both or one of the position of the virtual viewpoint and the direction of the virtual line of sight by an arbitrary amount of change at an arbitrary timing.

  At time T <b> 1, the CPU 101 displays an image representing a state in which the character 450 is viewed from the position of the virtual viewpoint 910 in the direction of the virtual line of sight 920. As shown in FIG. 6, an image of the character 450 taken from the front is displayed on the screen. The part 930 of the character 450 corresponding to the most recent game task is the “left foot”, but the left foot of the character 450 is visible on the right side from the player toward the screen.

  At time T <b> 2 after time T <b> 1, the CPU 101 displays an image representing a state in which the character 450 is viewed from the position of the virtual viewpoint 950 in the direction of the virtual visual line 960. As shown in FIG. 10, an image of the character 450 taken from behind is displayed on the screen. Even if the step position indication marks 410A to 410D representing the game task are the same, unlike FIG. 6, the part 930 (left foot) of the character 450 corresponding to the most recent game task is seen on the left side from the player toward the screen. .

  In other words, when the position of the virtual viewpoint and / or the orientation of the virtual line of sight changes, the appearance of the part 930 of the character 450 displayed on the screen may be different, so the character 450 as a model is simply There is a fear that the player cannot catch the choreography instantly just by displaying it. Therefore, by highlighting the part 930 of the character 450 corresponding to the game task, even when the position of the virtual viewpoint and / or the direction of the virtual line of sight changes, the player can easily grasp the part that should be moved most recently. Yes. If the position of the virtual viewpoint and the direction of the virtual line of sight change, depending on how these changes are made, it may be difficult for the player to see the part 930 of the character 450, or the player may mistake the left and right or up and down. According to the form, even if the position of the virtual viewpoint and the direction of the virtual line of sight change, there is an effect that the player can easily grasp the part 930.

(Embodiment 4)
Next, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. In each of the above embodiments, the game task is “moving the player's foot as indicated by the character 450 or the step position indication mark 410”. However, the content of the game task is not limited to this. In the present embodiment, the content of the game task is “the player moves his / her hand as indicated by the character 450 or an instruction mark indicating a hand swing”.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a game screen in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, a swing position instruction mark 1110 for instructing to shake the left hand is arranged in the lane 1140 in which the stationary marks 401 and 402 are displayed, and the right hand is in the lane 1150 in which the stationary marks 403 and 404 are displayed. A swing position instruction mark 1120 for instructing to swing is disposed.

  Lines 1131 to 1134 are lines representing the breaks between measures of the music to be played. A section sandwiched between the lines 1131 and 1132, a section sandwiched between the lines 1132 and 1133, and a section sandwiched between the lines 1133 and 1134 each correspond to one measure of the music. The swing position instruction mark 1110 represents a game task of “waving the left hand during one measure”. The swing position instruction mark 1120 represents a game task “was the right hand during one measure”.

  In FIG. 11, the swing position instruction mark 1110 is displayed with emphasis by inverting the color. In addition, the left hand of the character 450 is highlighted and displayed darkly. In other words, it can be seen at a glance that the game task most recently given to the player is “shake the left hand for one measure”.

  Note that the content of the game task may be not only the hands and feet but also the player may move other arbitrary parts such as the head, torso, and fingertips instead of the hands and feet.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and applications are possible. Moreover, it is also possible to freely combine the constituent elements of the above-described embodiments.

  A program for operating a computer as all or part of the above-described game device 500 is stored and distributed in a computer-readable recording medium such as a memory card, CD-ROM, DVD, or MO (Magneto Optical disk), This may be installed in another computer and operated as the above-described means, or the above-described steps may be executed.

  Furthermore, the program may be stored in a disk device or the like included in a server device on the Internet, and may be downloaded onto a computer by being superimposed on a carrier wave, for example.

  As described above, according to the present invention, a game device, a game processing method, and a program suitable for making it easier for the player to grasp the part to be moved most recently in a game that the player moves and moves. Can be provided.

100 Information processing apparatus 101 CPU
102 ROM
103 RAM
104 Interface 105 First controller (controller)
106 External memory 107 DVD-ROM drive 108 Image processing unit 109 Audio processing unit 110 NIC
111 Second controller (mat)
201 Grasping module 202 CCD camera 203 Cross-shaped key 204 A button 205 B button 206 Various buttons 207 Indicator 208 Power button 209 Speaker 301 to 304 Button 401 to 404 Stationary mark 410A to 410D Step position indication mark 430 Gauge 450 Character 500 Game device 501 Display unit 502 Selection unit 810 First instruction mark (stepping position instruction mark)
815 First part 820 Second instruction mark (stepping position instruction mark)
825 Second part 910,950 Virtual viewpoint 920,960 Virtual line of sight 930 part

Claims (7)

On the screen,
(A) a character that is arranged in a virtual space and changes its posture with a predetermined choreography over time;
(B) For a player who is given the task of changing posture with the same choreography as the choreography of the character, an instruction mark indicating which part of the player should be moved at which timing in the choreography;
A display unit for displaying,
Of the instruction marks displayed on the screen, a selection unit that selects a first instruction mark representing a part that the player should move most recently,
With
The display unit highlights the first instruction mark and the first part represented by the first instruction mark among the character parts displayed on the screen in a first manner. ,
A game device characterized by that. The game device according to claim 1,
The selection unit selects a second instruction mark representing a part that the player should move next to the first part,
The display unit highlights the second instruction mark and the second part represented by the second instruction mark among the character parts displayed on the screen in a second manner. ,
A game device characterized by that. The game device according to claim 1 or 2,
The display unit displays, on the screen, an image representing a state where the character is viewed from a position of a virtual viewpoint arranged in the virtual space to a virtual line of sight set in the virtual space,
The position of the virtual viewpoint and the direction of the virtual line of sight are both variable.
A game device characterized by that. The game device according to claim 2,
The display unit is the first mode obtained by changing at least one of brightness, saturation, and hue of each image representing the first instruction mark and the first part, Highlighting the first instruction mark and the first part;
A game device characterized by that. The game device according to claim 4,
The display unit is an aspect obtained by changing at least one of brightness, saturation, and hue of each image representing the second instruction mark and the second portion, and In the second mode different from the mode, the second instruction mark and the second part are highlighted.
A game device characterized by that. A game processing method executed by a game device having a display unit and a selection unit,
The display unit is on the screen,
(A) a character that is arranged in a virtual space and changes its posture with a predetermined choreography over time;
(B) For a player who is given the task of changing posture with the same choreography as the choreography of the character, an instruction mark indicating which part of the player should be moved at which timing in the choreography;
A display step for displaying,
A selection step in which the selection unit selects a first instruction mark representing a part that the player should move most recently among instruction marks displayed on the screen;
With
In the display step, the display unit displays the first instruction mark and a first part represented by the first instruction mark among the parts of the character displayed on the screen. To highlight in a manner,
The game processing method characterized by the above-mentioned. Computer
On the screen,
(A) a character that is arranged in a virtual space and changes its posture with a predetermined choreography over time;
(B) For a player who is given the task of changing posture with the same choreography as the choreography of the character, an instruction mark indicating which part of the player should be moved at which timing in the choreography;
A display for displaying
A selection unit that selects a first instruction mark representing a part that the player should move most recently among instruction marks displayed on the screen;
Function as
The display unit highlights the first instruction mark and the first part represented by the first instruction mark among the character parts displayed on the screen in a first manner. ,
A program characterized by that.

Images